Zuma’s first state visit to Britain begins today

President Jacob Zuma and his third wife, Thobeka Madiba Zuma, arrive in London today for their first state visit to Britain. In the wake of Msholozi's scandalous affairs on the homefront, will he make a good first impression?

President Jacob Zuma and his third wife, Mrs Thobeka Madiba Zuma, arrive today, to make their first state visit to Britain, in the wake of a damaging scandal at home over his lovechild born to the daughter of a World Cup official.

During his four-day stay, the charismatic leader will visit Queen Elizabeth II and Prime Minister Gordon Brown, and address members of parliament."This is his opportunity to present himself as a statesman, leading Africa’s most powerful nation," said political analyst Dirk Kotze.

"Despite some high-profile economic and political matters that are likely to be addressed, Zuma will also use this opportunity to project a good image of himself, given the issues associated with his rise to power," Kotze said.

Zuma’s office said the president would also use his meeting with Brown to discuss the fragile unity government in neighbouring Zimbabwe, which has failed to make major headway since it was installed a year ago.

"British sanctions on President Robert Mugabe and his inner circle remain a major sticking point in Harare, and Zuma has previously indicated that he would like to see the sanctions lifted."

"President Zuma and Brown are expected to brief each other on the issues affecting the Zimbabwe government," said Zuma’s spokesman Vincent Magwenya.

On the home front, South Africa wants Britain to lift a new visa requirement for South African visitors. British authorities imposed the visa requirement last year, saying South African passports were susceptible to fraud. Zuma’s new home affairs minister has taken steps to stamp out corruption, but he will have to convince London that enough has been done to prevent faking of passports. Sapa

For more on Zuma and the Royal family, read Saffa history series: South African biographer to the Royals. For more expat news, read South African official mistreats domestic worker in London